A technical breakdown of the current Xbox Series hardware lineup, covering performance profiles, custom AMD Zen 2 and RDNA 2 architectures, memory configurations, and storage options.
The differences in design and storage space
The most obvious difference is that the Xbox Series S plays digital games exclusively and doesn't have a disc slot. On the other hand, the Xbox Series X offers a disc or disc-less option, with the latter version costing slightly less.
Inside, the base Series S has 512 gigabytes of storage, with a 1 terabyte model available for an additional fee. The Series X offers 1 terabyte from the start, with the larger 2 terabyte version being discontinued by Microsoft in 2026. You can add more storage to both consoles with a special expansion card that plugs into the back.
Performance and graphics
The Series X has much more processing power and is aimed at high 4K resolution. The Series S typically maxes out at 1440p in most games, although it supports upscaling to 4K.
Both models can reach 120 frames per second, but the Series X has a faster processor, more powerful graphics, and more RAM. Meanwhile, the Series S is about 60% smaller in size, making it easier to install.
What to choose and what comes in the future
If you prefer digital purchases and don't have a collection of discs, the Series S is a more affordable option. If you want maximum graphics performance or the ability to use discs, the Series X is the right choice. However, both have been more expensive since their release.
Additionally, Microsoft is preparing a new family of devices called Project Helix, the first samples of which are expected to be sent to game developers for testing in 2027.
Top comments (0)